Luke Zak

I combed thru the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority's 23-24 annual report and found some interesting info about U.S. Bank Stadium - ASM Global financial performance from July '23 to June 30, 2024: + Aramark Sports + Entertainment brought in $40.9M in F&B gross sales revenue + the ASM Global-run venue brought in $43.8M in stadium operating revenue + ticket service, processing, and facility fees were all increased, a big contributor to 12.1% higher operating revenues More here: https://lnkd.in/ekksT2zP

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NIL means much more than making money. Student-Athletes can use their Name, Image, and Likeness to build a lifelong legacy in their communities and change lives. At TEAM NILO, we believe in the power of athletes to make a difference—not just on the field, but in the lives of those around them. A single moment of encouragement, a kind word, or a meaningful conversation can change the trajectory of someone's life, and these moments can multiply into lifelong relationships. It’s not about the money—it’s about the impact. Join us in empowering your student-athletes to use their influence for good, creating a ripple effect of positive change, one life at a time. #TEAMNILO #BeyondTheDollars

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This is why Scottsdale is a front leader in the sports industry. Are you ready to get involved? Scottsdale, Arizona, has established itself as a premier destination for sports tourism, hosting world-class events that drive significant economic growth. From the Super Bowl and the Waste Management Phoenix Open to Cactus League Spring Training, these events not only put Scottsdale on the map but also inject billions of dollars into the local economy. Here’s a closer look at how these marquee events impact Scottsdale’s financial landscape: The Super Bowl Effect The Super Bowl is one of the most-watched sporting events globally, and hosting it in the greater Phoenix area brings unparalleled attention and revenue. In 2023, Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium generated an estimated $600 million in economic impact for the region. The Waste Management Phoenix Open Dubbed “The Greatest Show on Grass,” the Waste Management Phoenix Open is not just a golf tournament—it’s a week-long celebration that attracts over 700,000 attendees annually. Held at TPC Scottsdale, the event contributes an estimated $400 million to the local economy each year. Beyond ticket sales, the Open drives spending in hospitality, transportation, and tourism sectors. It also raises millions for local charities, showcasing the event’s dual economic and philanthropic impact. Cactus League Spring Training Scottsdale is home to the San Francisco Giants’ Spring Training at Scottsdale Stadium, a centerpiece of the Cactus League. Spring Training draws over 1.7 million fans to Arizona annually, contributing $644 million to the state’s economy, with Scottsdale as a key beneficiary. Visitors stay in local hotels, dine at area restaurants, and enjoy Scottsdale’s vibrant nightlife, creating a ripple effect of economic activity. The city’s top-tier facilities and picturesque weather make it a favorite destination for both players and fans. Year-Round Benefits These marquee events are complemented by Scottsdale’s year-round sports offerings, including golf, pickleball, and youth sports tournaments. The city’s investment in sports facilities and infrastructure ensures it remains a competitive destination for sporting events of all kinds. Beyond direct spending, sports tourism boosts Scottsdale’s profile, attracting long-term investment in commercial real estate, hospitality, and retail. Job Creation and Local Business Growth The economic ripple effects of sports in Scottsdale extend beyond tourism revenue. These events create thousands of jobs in sectors such as hospitality, event management, and transportation. Local businesses, from small retailers to large-scale service providers, benefit from increased foot traffic and consumer spending. The collaboration between public and private entities ensures that the benefits of these events are widely distributed across the community. PURE Pickleball & Padel Caliber #investing #entrepreneurship #branding #sportsinvesting #scottsdale

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NIL in college sports is here to stay, and it’s only going to continue evolving. For years, colleges have found ways to incentivize athletes to choose them—now, these incentives can be openly structured and monetized. A prime example is the recent collaboration between Dave Portnoy and Larry Ellison, who invested millions to secure the #1 QB recruit for Michigan in the 2025 class. Similarly, the Cheez-It Bowl made headlines by offering $100,000 to both starting quarterbacks—directly addressing the issue of top players opting out of bowl games to avoid injury ahead of the NFL Draft. This innovative approach not only incentivizes key players to participate but also raises the profile of the bowl game itself, potentially increasing revenue and making it more competitive for future teams. These examples show that as NIL becomes more ingrained in college sports. Schools and donors will continue to find new ways to attract and retain top talent. So, what might the next wave of creative incentives look like? I will share some of my own thoughts tomorrow. https://lnkd.in/eGvb9KAE

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https://lnkd.in/eb6XTVyX Following up on my post yesterday, one exciting possibility about the future of sports after the advent of collegiate NIL is the introduction of performance-based bonuses for college athletics, much like those in professional sports. Imagine athletes being rewarded for key accomplishments like touchdowns, tackles, or even helping their teams secure victories. These bonuses could be based on personal and or team success. This could also lead to performance-based bonuses based on attendance. More like the revenue sharing models of the pro sports world. Another innovative idea could be offering athletes "post-college playbooks"—essentially NIL deals that help them transition from college to professional sports. These packages might include business development resources, marketing support, or even mentorship programs in collaboration with agents or professional development firms. By giving athletes these tools, schools could help them build the necessary foundation for life after sports. But will sports agents want these very valuable and beneficial perks for their “amateur’ athletes, or would they push for maximum short-term revenue? Bowl games could also continue to evolve by offering larger payouts to players who make the biggest impact. Take the Cheez-It Bowl, for example, which offered $100,000 to its starting quarterbacks—this kind of incentive could be extended to other key players and tied to performance-based rewards, such as MVP bonuses or payouts for milestones like touchdowns or sacks during the game. To keep top talent in school longer, we could see schools offering loyalty bonuses to athletes who stay for multiple seasons. These incentives could make it easier for players who are on the fence about entering the NFL Draft early to stick around for another year or two. In exchange for staying in college, athletes would receive financial support, and in turn, schools’ benefit by keeping star players in their programs for a longer period. This would allow athletes to develop their skills further, while schools continue to build stronger, more competitive teams. It would also incentivize athletes to stay at their respective schools. Finally, some schools might begin offering NIL deals that extend beyond just the athlete but to their families as well. This could mean scholarships for siblings or tuition assistance for parents. This would add a personal and meaningful avenue for the schools to reach not only athletes, but possibly their entire families. The landscape is still evolving. But the future is bright for college athletes and its exciting to think about how this will impact game play and the future of college athletics.

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In an effort to engage with the youth hockey community on a deeper level, the group sales department at the Sharks spent the Summer brainstorming ways to connect the brand with each youth in Northern California who loves the game of hockey. That’s where the idea for Neck Guards for NorCal was born.   As of August 1st, 2024, USA Hockey Congress requires the use of a neck laceration protector for players under 18. The program we invented is the simple ask for youth hockey parents, coaches and registrars to sign up for our Hockey Player Perks newsletter for direct to consumer communication. In exchange, they receive a free CCM laceration protector. It’s that simple.   As of today, we have put over 1,000 neck guards in the hands of youth athletes in Northern California! In turn, we have generated youth hockey specific, marketable leads to get these outstanding results: - Converted over $100,000 in ticket revenue so far for the 24-25 season (Pacing towards a 1,011% growth in youth hockey group tickets since 2023) - Filled all available youth hockey experiences from Opening Night through 11/29 (and beyond)! - Added 4 new youth hockey specific, revenue generating dark day events to align fan development with the Sharks brand in FY26. - Identified over 3,000 existing leads in CRM as a ‘youth hockey family’ – information we didn’t have before about that specific client. - Added 25% new, opted in leads to Salescloud – brand new to our database. HUGE stick taps to Doug Bentz, Kevin Brown, Malia Bates, Chris Dimich, Joshua Nanavaty, Garren LaPosta, Jon Gustafson Jazmin De La Cruz and Lauren Strackbine for the support on this idea to get it off the ground to such initial success. And a special shout out to Youth Hockey Team Lead, Cameron Karkoska. Cam has dedicated countless hours since we pivoted to a more focused youth hockey and fan development approach to attending hockey tournaments each weekend, stuffing neck guards into envelopes, talking to other NHL teams about programs, listening to my crazy ideas and more. Cam is a perfect example of relentless pursuit of the goal, and I am honored to work with him on this project with such results.   Here's to the next 1,000!

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We talk about the power of sports on a daily basis, but the results of the latest Sports Events & Tourism Association State of the Industry Report, sponsored by Northstar Meetings Group and produced by Tourism Economics make the case with real numbers. And they are the strongest numbers ever recorded. Among the highlights: ⚽ 63 percent of cities that responded said sports are the top room-night generator in their communities. 💵 The sports-events industry had a direct economic impact of $52.2 billion in 2023 and $128 billion overall factoring all spending. ✈ More than 200 million people traveled to youth and adult amateur sports, as well as collegiate championships in 2023. 🛌 Sports-related travel generated more than 73 million room nights in 2023. Thank you to John David, STS and Sports ETA for the chance to support this important research. If your destination or organization is not investing in sports-related travel, it is time to look at the power this market holds for the future. And our events, including the TEAMS Conference & Expo, the EsportsTravel Summit and TEAMS Europe, as well as our channels through SportsTravel Magazine can help position you for success.

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Every year I get dozens of people reaching out to me about how to break into the sports industry. The reality is: it is really hard! Sports is a supply and demand industry. Many more people want jobs in sports than there are jobs available. Really excited to partner with Sports Business Ventures to help people achieve their goals in this industry. From their mentor marketplace (matching job seekers with mentors in their field) to The Playbook (job boards, peer to peer networking, virtual panel discussions, and more), SBV is a tremendous resource for anybody who wants to work in sports. Check out The Playbook today! https://lnkd.in/eTs_Bx4W

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The newest SportsLine mock draft in the #FantasyFootball PPR format includes a reminder that you can never fully predict what will happen in the first round - https://lnkd.in/gpzE9p74

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Most people will: - Watch sports - Cheer for their team - Notice brand logos - Feel connected to sponsors - Buy products linked to their favorite teams Most people will not realize. They are influenced. Sponsorships shape buying choices. They create AWARENESS. → My message to you: Brands use sports to connect with fans. The journey starts with exposure. Logos on jerseys. Ads in stadiums. Fans see these brands over and over. They start to trust them. → Next step: POSITIVE ASSOCIATION Fans love their teams. They trust sponsors. This trust transfers to the brands. → Then comes ENGAGEMENT Meet athletes. Join social media campaigns. Interact at events. Buy exclusive merchandise. These experiences deepen the bond. → Consideration and Preference Fans start preferring these brands. They feel a connection. They choose these products. → Finally, PURCHASE INTENT Fans are more likely to buy. Sponsorships boost buying intent by 10%. → Post-Purchase Reinforcement Fans continue to see the brand. They stick with their choice. Loyalty grows. Repeat purchases happen. → Brands guide fans from awareness to loyalty. They create meaningful connections. They tap into the passion of sports. → This is the power of sports sponsorships. "Let’s build something incredible together. Whether you’re looking to grow brand awareness, engage new audiences, or create unforgettable experiences, partnering with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx can take your brand to the next level. Shoot me a message or email to explore how we can make it happen. Let’s connect!"  E: jenna.martindale@timberwolves.com #SportsMarketing #SponsorshipStrategy #PartnershipMarketing #BrandPartnerships #SponsorshipOpportunities #CMOInsights #BrandStrategy #MarketingInnovation

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🚀 Attention Golf Industry Professionals! 🚀 As advertising costs continue to climb, finding new ways to increase customer lifetime value (LTV) and create more meaningful connections with your audience is crucial. At Performance Golf, we specialize in doing just that for golf companies. We help golf brands like yours increase their LTV and provide more value to their customers by associating with some of the biggest names in golf—Sir Nick Faldo, Hank Haney, David Leadbetter, and many others. Our proven strategies not only help brands stay top of mind but also unlock new revenue streams, even with ad costs on the rise. Whether you're a golf business owner, marketer, or know someone in the industry, let's connect! I'm always open to discussing how we can collaborate or how you can refer someone who could benefit from our solutions. Together, we can help more golfers play better and drive success in the golf industry. Feel free to DM me or comment below if you're interested in learning more or know someone who might be! #GolfBusiness #AffiliateMarketing #GolfIndustry #Networking #CustomerValue

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Counting down 2024’s Top 10 Sports Sponsored Content - Part 1️⃣ 🎤 #10: Pittsburgh Penguins x DICK'S Sporting Goods This post convinced me that with the right execution, in-venue activations can thrive on social media as sponsored content. Results: 2.4M impressions, 113K engagements, 4.7% rate. 😴 #9: Philadelphia Eagles x Sleep Number Corporation In the sleep and fitness categories, many teams settle for a basic post about a player’s workout/recovery routine, the Eagles flipped the script, creating content that held fans’ attention and seamlessly delivered brand messaging. Results: 838K YouTube views Stay tuned and follow along for the rest of the top 10. #sportsbusiness #sportsmarketing #sponsorship

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The game of golf is entering a dynamic new age! According to the National Golf Foundation, the average age of an on-course golfer in the U.S. is now 43.5, showing how the game continues to attract both seasoned players and new, diverse audiences. With 41 million Americans engaging in golf in some form, it's clear the sport is growing in ways we’ve never seen before. At KemperSports, we're embracing this evolution by fostering inclusivity, innovative programming, and a fresh perspective on what golf can be for the next generation.

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I love how at AU we continue to write our own script. While many colleges and some professional teams have staff to help manage their players' NIL few -- if any -- have dedicated staff to help them create their brand through individualized content creation, consulting, and education. To any sports organization, affiliate, or agency: Your athletes are your biggest marketing asset. Educating them on their own brand build + awareness will not only help them succeed, it will bring more dedicated eyes to you as well. #smsports #NIL #brandbuilding #digitalmarketing #sportsmarketing

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The National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA) has shared key rule changes for the upcoming year, with several focusing on uniforms and apparel regulations across different sports. Here are some highlights for team dealers, coaches, and sports retailers: 🔹 Little League Baseball & Softball: *Catchers’ gear gets tech-savvy with approved one-way communication devices for pitch calls. *Uniform guidelines emphasize contrast—pitchers' undershirts can't match the ball's color in softball, and pitchers in baseball can wear solid neoprene sleeves (no white or gray). *Jewelry rules are relaxed, permitting players to wear it unless medically unsafe. *Helmet stickers are allowed as long as they remain appropriate and non-excessive. 🔹 Dixie Softball: *Faceguards are required on pressurized helmets, ensuring both safety and compliance. 🔹 USA Lacrosse: *By 2027, jerseys must feature numbers that clearly contrast with the jersey's body color for better visibility. 🔹 General Trend: Across sports, there’s an emphasis on player safety, clarity, and individuality, allowing for modernizations like tech in helmets and more flexible rules for personal expression (e.g., jewelry and decals). Uniform updates like these can impact how teams prepare for the season. Whether you're a coach, player, or supplier, staying ahead of these changes is essential! 💬 What do you think of these updates? Share your thoughts below!

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🚨Announcement: Bettinardi Golf, the leader in precision-milled putters, premium golf equipment, and accessories, proudly announces a groundbreaking licensing agreement with the National Football League (NFL). This multi-year collaboration will introduce officially licensed NFL-branded Bettinardi putters and accessories, blending world-class craftsmanship with NFL fandom*. . 📢 Press Release: https://lnkd.in/gR_KgV2x . When Bettinardi and the NFL join forces, they forge an inspiring community where artistry and sportsmanship collide. Together, they empower you to aim higher, dream bigger, and tackle every challenge with unyielding enthusiasm. . . . #NFL, #NFLFootball, #NFLxBettinardi, #BettinardiGolf, #GolfAndGridiron, #TeamPride, #PrecisionCrafted, #BettinardiHive, #MadeInTheUSA

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The future of sports is bright! Fitch Ratings projects a stronger financial outlook for the industry in 2025, fueled by global expansion, growing interest in women’s sports, and favorable economic conditions like lower U.S. interest rates. Key drivers include robust income streams from media rights, sponsorships, naming rights, and premium seating, alongside increased demand for sports content and concert tours utilizing professional facilities. “The rise of women’s sports and global engagement are unlocking exciting new revenue opportunities,” says Fitch’s Ben Munguia. The game is changing—and the opportunities are boundless! #SportsBusiness #WomenInSports #GlobalExpansion

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Utah Hockey Club... The Utah Yetis... The Utah Blizzard... We will see what the final name of the NHL's Utah franchise will be as they start their campaign next season, but once thing that is quite clear today is that Utah has quickly become a major growth hub for professional sports. Ryan Smith has purchased all 4 professional sports franchises in Utah in 5 years. The Utah Jazz, Real Salt Lake, Utah Royals, and the aforementioned National Hockey League (NHL) franchise which is to be named very soon. Ryan has a vision and a commitment to the area. He is invested in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) which is major growth opportunity where Francis valuations are doubling, doubling again, and the ceiling seems to be ever-climbing. The Jazz are part of National Basketball Association (NBA) furniture. Listening to Ryan on the Pat McAfee show, he has done his homework. He cited only small percentages of overlap in season ticket holders across his 4 teams. Each team plays a specific part in connecting to the fans and the community. It is not just about amassing toys, it is about building a diverse portfolio of sports assets. Investing in sports does not have to be a losing proposition and sharp minds like Ryan Smith are showing the way. Sports Business Classes - - Read the article from Front Office Sports. Looking at sports franchises as investments, what league would you invest in and why? (Hint - focus on the WHY. There is no wrong answer but the work here is to do a little research to back up your plan) What market or city would be THE best place to invest for that league? What does success look like in terms of professional sports team ownership in 5 years? 10 years? Fox School of Business at Temple University University of Utah - David Eccles School of Business University of Oregon Lundquist College of Business UO Sports Product Management Master’s Program The University of Iowa Tippie College of Business UCLA Anderson School of Management Oregon State University College of Business #sportsbusiness #sportsmarketing #sportsbiz #sportsmanagement #NHLUtah #sportsbizprof

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